Prime suitors go ‘cold’ on Rudiger trail due to Chelsea star’s ‘shock request’

Juventus could cool their interest in Antonio Rudiger if reports of his financial demands are true – although the source covering the story speculates that they may be “exaggerated”.

Rudiger will become a free agent in June, unless there is a change of Chelsea ownership by then so he could negotiate a renewal. As things stand, the Germany international has been exploring his options. It seems more likely he will leave Stamford Bridge than stay.

If he is to pursue a career elsewhere, the former Roma centre-back will have a few options. One of the main ones would be a return to Italy with Juventus. They were recently reported to have attracted him ahead of the new season.

But talk of any kind of agreement was premature. The race for Rudiger – which could also include Manchester United, depending on who their next manager is – remains open.

And alternative suitors could be boosted by the fact that Juventus are now hesitant to accommodate the financial demands set by Rudiger’s entourage.

According to Tuttosport, the defender’s camp are trying to secure him a salary worth €10m per season (£160,000 per week), plus a signing-on bonus of €30m (£25m). The Turin-based outlet describes this as a “shock request”.

The demands are “not compatible” with the parameters under which Juventus are trying to work. However, there is a feeling that the numbers have been “exaggerated” by sources in London.

Thanks to his past in Italy and five years away, Rudiger could benefit from the Italian Growth Decree tax law. Even when that is taken into consideration, though, a €10m annual figure would be beyond Juventus’ preferred means.

Rudiger hoping to stay at Chelsea as he plays waiting game

Antonio Rudiger hoping to stay at Chelsea this summer despite Juventus and Real Madrid interest

As such, they have gone “cold” on the deal for now. But they remember that Rudiger is an elite operator who can feature either at centre-back or right-back. It also appeals that he is comfortable in a back three or a back four.

Juventus preserve Rudiger contact in hope

Therefore, if the numbers are in fact lower as Tuttosport speculate, they could still sit down for talks.

Juventus will be keeping contact with Rudiger’s representatives in the months leading up to his potential release by the European champions.

Replenishing their defence is a priority task as they plan for a future beyond Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci. They are preparing to welcome back 23-year-old Federico Gatti from a productive loan spell with Frosinone, but are aiming to make a signing too.

They wouldn’t have to pay a transfer fee for Rudiger. But it is clear there are other significant costs that come with the deal.

Their reluctance to meet the necessary demands at present could in theory open a door for other suitors, like Man Utd. Despite this, the Red Devils do not get any sort of mention in Tuttosport‘s report.

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